The fate of an iconic live music venue in Watford has been thrown into doubt once more after it closed again last month.
For more than 20 years, The Horns pub on Hempstead Road has offered the people of Watford the chance to enjoy a variety of live bands, DJs, and open mic nights, with six or more gigs every week.
In October of last year, the venue fell victim to rising energy bills and a dip in interest in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving them with no choice but to close.
The community rallied, and their support helped the pub clear their £50,000 debt, allowing the venue to reopen weeks later.
This proved to be a false dawn, however, as The Horns announced on Saturday, October 21, that they would not be opening the following morning.
The Horns stated on Facebook: “We’ve tried our hardest to get us through this, but sadly we can’t. The pub is totally unsustainable, and I can’t keep it running any longer. I’m truly very sorry for any inconvenience caused. Thank you massively to the bands, friends and customers for all your help.”
Tributes from residents have since poured in, with one commenting: “In my 20s, it was the place to go. In my 30s, I met my hubby and great friends. In my 40s, I returned to meet my friends and enjoy the bands. Next year, I am 50. I thought you would always be there.”
Another resident told WATFORDnews: “Absolutely devastated. It was always such a great vibe in there. Where are we going to enjoy live music now?”
A spokesperson from Stonegate Group, which owns the pub, said: “The Horns is currently closed as a new management agreement is set to be put in place. We hope to reopen the site soon, once the publican taking the business forward has been confirmed.”
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